#Leeds400

Colin Harris, the bridge’s original designer, visited the site to get an up-close look at their work and reminisce about his role in bringing the project to life.
17th July 2026
2 mins read

Landmark Leeds Bridge Restored for City’s 400th Anniversary

Memories of a pioneering Leeds landmark have been revived as part of a historic restoration project marking a major milestone in the city’s history. Centenary Bridge, which crosses the River Aire between The Calls and Brewery Wharf, has been refurbished as Leeds commemorates 400 years since it was granted its first royal charter by…
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L-R Joe Salmond, La-Niyah Fuller, Nellie Brennan, Maahnoor Rauf and Ranw Amin, pupils at Chapel Allerton Primary.
17th July 2026
3 mins read

Leeds pupils capture city life for future generations

Primary school pupils across Leeds have created a thought-provoking message for future generations as the city marks a major historic anniversary. Children from schools throughout the city prepared a series of time capsules, which were buried on July 13 — exactly 400 years after Leeds received its first royal charter from King Charles I.…
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Independent Spirit: A Heritage Framework for Leeds
5th June 2026
1 min read

New Leeds Heritage Framework Celebrates City’s Independent Spirit

A new blueprint setting out how heritage can help shape the future of Leeds has been launched. Independent Spirit: A Heritage Framework for Leeds brings together organisations from across the city’s heritage sector to establish a shared vision for the years ahead. The framework outlines how the city’s heritage can bring people together, strengthen…
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Outdoor activities coach Toby Cade and Adam-Peter Gair
5th June 2026
2 mins read

Leeds sailors launch challenge to mark historic double anniversary

A popular outdoor activity centre at one of Leeds’ best-known beauty spots is inviting local people to join its crew for a special challenge marking two historic milestones. Leeds Sailing and Activity Centre will celebrate 20 years on the water at Yeadon Tarn this weekend. To mark the occasion, staff are calling on adventure-seekers…
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What's Your 400?
27th March 2026
2 mins read

Leeds launches unique city-wide challenge to celebrate 400 years of history

Leeds has launched a unique city-wide challenge inviting residents to help celebrate 400 years of the city’s history. The new campaign, called What’s Your 400?, is encouraging people across Leeds to take part in anniversary celebrations marking four centuries since the city was granted its first charter in 1626. Individuals, groups and communities are…
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Alex Pearson, archives assistant with West Yorkshire Archive Service with the copy of the Leeds Charter
20th February 2026
3 mins read

Leeds’ historic Royal Charter saved from becoming a lampshade

One of the most important documents in Leeds’ history was rescued from an unlikely fate as a makeshift lampshade, city archivists have revealed, as preparations continue for a major exhibition celebrating 400 years since the city was granted its royal charter. The one-of-a-kind copy of the Leeds Royal Charter, delicately inscribed centuries ago —…
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